Dr Gerti Szili

Gerti Szili is a Human Geographer with a background in urban and regional planning, environmental studies and anthropology. Her core research interests lie in investigating urban and regional regeneration practice and governance and understanding how communities negotiate landscapes in transition. Her other research interests include urban entrepreneurialism, tourism, environmental philosophy and politics, place making and city marketing, sustainable development, qualitative research methodologies, and constructivist pedagogy. Gerti is a dedicated educator who is regularly commended for her teaching excellence and represents her discipline as an elected member of the Royal Geographical Society of South Australia. 

Associate Professor Udoy Saikia

Udoy Saikia is a Social Demographer with research and teaching expertise population dynamics, human wellbeing, and sustainable development. The “wellbeing index” which is the most innovative part of his research has been the core focus of several recent Human Development Reports published by the United Nations. Most recently in his role as the Lead Author and the Team Leader, Associate Prof Saikia has completed the research project leading to the production of the UN National Human Development Report, Timor-Leste 2018- a report which focuses on policy pathways to achieve demographic dividend. He received “Vice Chancellors Award for Excellence in teaching, 2011” and “Citations for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning, 2012”, Office of Learning and Teaching, Government of Australia. 

Professor Beverley Clarke

Beverley Clarke is a geographer, researching both formal and informal processes affecting policy, decision-making and outcomes for the environment. She is recognised for her research on community engagement, policy evaluation, capacity building, policy implications of coastal climate change, and the social dimensions of natural resource management. She has worked throughout Australia with many different stakeholder groups including all tiers of government, NGOs and the community. Her research has been noted for its direct impact and value to industry both nationally and locally. Beverley is recognised in Australia for her leadership in championing Geography (e.g. Past President of the Institute of Australian Geographers) and the coast (e.g. Branch Chair and Secretary of the Australian Coastal Society).

Professor Susanne Schech

Susanne is a geographer with expertise in development studies and migration. Her teaching is underpinned by multi-disciplinary social science research. She has published on a range of topics including poverty, gender inequality, and development volunteering, as well as critically exploring the ideas of development and humanitarian assistance. Susanne’s teaching and research in migration has focused on refugee mobilities and integration, and she also has a strong interest in temporary labour migration. Susanne is an award-winning teacher who has collaborated with other universities on innovative teaching projects that enhance learning through realistic problem-based policy scenarios.